I headed to Babylon Nightclub in Ottawa on January 16, 2013, for a particularly memorable show featuring Scary Bear Soundtrack, Highs, Harea Band and Elizabeth Hodgson.
The show was especially significant because it marked Scary Bear Soundtrack’s final performance for the time being.
The band was also celebrating the release of the music video for their song “Beaver Pond Forest,” making the night feel like both a farewell and a celebration.
The evening began with Ottawa musician Elizabeth Hodgson, who delivered a pleasant set of acoustic pop songs.
She also surprised the crowd with a cover of Alanis Morissette’s “Ironic,” which was a fun addition to her set.
Next up was Harea Band, an emerging Ottawa act I had been wanting to see live.
They brought an energetic indie-pop-rock sound and quickly got the audience moving.
I remember them closing their set with a rather memorable song about wanting to get laid—definitely an entertaining way to end their performance!
Then it was time for Toronto’s Highs, a band I was particularly excited to see after previously writing a short review of their music.
Their set did not disappoint. Highs delivered an impressive performance that reminded me of a mix between Braids and Bravestation, blending atmospheric textures with catchy indie-rock and pop elements.
There were some minor technical difficulties during their second song, but the band handled it well and continued to deliver a strong set.
They completely impressed me and were one of the highlights of the evening.
Finally, it was time for Scary Bear Soundtrack.
It was hard to believe this would be their final show for now. Lead singer Gloria was preparing to move to Nunavut for two years, making the performance an emotional farewell for the Ottawa band.
Rather than making the night overly sentimental, Scary Bear Soundtrack put on a fun, lively and entertaining set that felt like a proper hurrah.
It was a great way to celebrate the band, their music and the next chapter ahead.
The combination of four very different acts made for a memorable night at Babylon Nightclub, and it was especially nice to see Scary Bear Soundtrack go out on such a high note.
Check out the photos from Scary Bear Soundtrack, Highs, Harea Band and Elizabeth Hodgson below.
